iOS developers have long sought ways to modify their app icons without using shortcuts or third-party tools. In this article, we’ll explore the various methods that you can use to change your app icons on an iPhone running iOS 17 without having to rely on shortcuts.

Method 1: Using the “Files” App

One of the easiest ways to modify your app icon is by using the “Files” app, which allows you to access and manage all files on your device. Here’s how you can use it to change your app icon:

1. Open the “Files” app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on the app icon that you want to modify.
3. Tap on the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen and select “Rename.”
4. Type in the new name for your app icon and tap on “Save.”
5. Your app icon should now have a new name.

Note that this method will only allow you to change the name of your app icon, not its appearance. If you want to modify the actual icon image, you’ll need to use one of the other methods outlined below.

Method 2: Using Xcode

If you have access to a Mac running Xcode, you can use it to modify your app icon directly on your iPhone. Here’s how you can do it:

7. Connect your iPhone to your Mac using a USB cable.
8. Open Xcode and select “Window” > “Devices and Simulators.”
9. Select your iPhone from the list of devices and click on “Apply Changes.”
10. In the “File Browser” window that appears, locate the icon file for the app you want to modify.
11. Right-click on the icon file and select “Get Info.”
12. In the “Info” window that appears, change the name of the file to reflect your new app icon name.
13. Click “OK” to save your changes.
14. Your app icon should now have a new name.

Note that this method will allow you to modify both the name and appearance of your app icon. However, it requires access to a Mac running Xcode, which may not be available to all iOS developers.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Tools

If neither of the above methods work for you, there are a number of third-party tools that you can use to modify your app icon on an iPhone. These tools typically require you to download and install them on your device, and may require a subscription or purchase price. Some popular options include IconChanger, CustomIconChanger, and IconMate.

When using these tools, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and ensure that you back up your app icon before making any changes. Additionally, be aware that modifying your app icon may void your device’s warranty or cause issues with your app’s functionality.

Comparison of Methods

Here’s a brief comparison of the three methods outlined above:

	Method 1: Using the "Files" App	Method 2: Using Xcode	Method 3: Using Third-Party Tools
Pros	Easy and accessible	Allows for both name and appearance changes	Wide range of customization options
Cons	Limited to changing the name of the icon	Requires access to a Mac running Xcode	May require subscription or purchase price

Ultimately, the best method for modifying your app icon on an iPhone will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. If you’re comfortable using the “Files” app and don’t need to make significant changes to your icon, it may be the easiest and most accessible option. If you need more customization options or have access to a Mac running Xcode, you may want to consider using one of the other methods.

Real-Life Example: Modifying an App Icon for a Personal Use

Let’s say you’re an iOS developer who wants to modify the icon for a personal app that you use on your iPhone. Here’s how you can do it using each of the three methods outlined above:

1. Using the “Files” App
• Open the “Files” app on your iPhone.
• Tap on the app icon for your personal app.
• Tap on the three dots in the top-right corner of the screen and select “Rename.”



• Type in a new name for your app icon, such as “My Personal App.”
• Tap on “Save.”
• Your app icon should now have a new name.
2. Using Xcode
• Connect your iPhone to your Mac using a USB cable.
• Open Xcode and select “Window” > “Devices and Simulators.”
• Select your iPhone from the list of devices and click on “Apply Changes.”
• In the “File Browser” window that appears, locate the icon file for your personal app.
• Right-click on the icon file and select “Get Info.”
• In the “Info” window that appears, change the name of the file to reflect your new app icon name, such as “My Personal App Icon.”
• Click “OK” to save your changes.
• Your app icon should now have a new name.
3. Using Third-Party Tools
• Download and install a third-party tool like IconChanger on your iPhone.
• Open the IconChanger app and select your personal app icon from the list of available icons.
• Customize the appearance of your app icon, such as changing its color or adding a custom image.
• Save your changes and exit the app.
• Your app icon should now have a new appearance.

Conclusion

Modifying app icons on an iPhone without using shortcuts in iOS 17 can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and methods, it’s possible to achieve your desired results. Whether you prefer using the “Files” app, Xcode, or third-party tools, it’s important to follow best practices and back up your app icon before making any changes. By doing so, you can ensure that your app remains functional and visually appealing on your iPhone.